Borgie Breco

Leaping salmon and gorse blooms in the far north

Borgie forest takes its name from an outstanding salmon river which springs to life in the Flow Country below Ben Loyal and enters the sea through sandy Torrisdale Bay. The salmon swim upstream through the forest in spring, when yellow gorse blossoms line the riverbanks. Catch glimpses of them in the sparkling water from the riverside trail, or spiral through the Gaelic tree alphabet in A'chraobh. Our map guide will help you explore Borgie Breco and other forest trails in Sutherland.

Walking trails

Riverside Trail

Meander through young native woodland along the beautiful River Borgie, one of Scotland’s most famous salmon rivers.

Smooth gravel surface with some slightly uneven grassy areas. Generally flat with some gentle slopes and short moderate ramps. Optional diversion to viewpoint has narrow boardwalk and exposed tree roots.

¾ miles / 1.1 km

Allow ½ hour

More information

Picnic beside a mature Scots pine with wide open views over the surrounding moorland, or watch for silver-backed salmon in the river.

Facilities & access

Parking

Picnic area

The nearest public toilets and places to eat are in Bettyhill and Tongue, 6 miles (9.6 km) and 7 miles (11.2 km) away respectively.

You might want to wear insect repellent or long sleeves during the summer: there can be a lot of midges and horseflies about.

Getting here

The turn-off for Borgie Breco is on the south side of the A836 between Tongue and Bettyhill, just opposite the turn-off to Borgie village. Turn into the forest here and follow the track for just over ¼ mile (400 metres) to the main car park.

Using SatNav?

KW14 7SG is the nearest postcode. It's on the A836 coming from Bettyhill, 4 ½ miles (7.2 km) from the forest.

Public transport

The bus service between Thurso and Tongue stops at Borgie Bridge, a short walk from the forest entrance. See Traveline Scotland for details.